Caring for Someone with Breast Cancer
Family members and friends can play a vital role in helping patients with breast cancer cope with their diagnosis and treatment.
The following are just some of the ways you can help:
- Go with the patient to their doctor visits. Listen and write down any information the doctor provides. Ask questions. There is no such thing as a silly question when it comes to a loved one's health.
- Help to keep track of any side effects the patient may be experiencing and report them to the patient's doctor.
- Assist with any insurance issues that may come up.
- Give practical support to the patient. Volunteer to run errands, do cooking, housekeeping, etc.
- Prioritize enjoyable time together with the patient.
- Communicate with the patient as openly as possible. Listen when the patient wants to talk about their cancer and/or treatment.
When caring for a loved one with breast cancer, it's important to take care of yourself as well. Remember to:
- Enjoy healthy meals.
- Stay physically active. Take regular walks, practice yoga, etc.
- Take a break from the disease each day by enjoying some of your favorite pastimes - watch a movie or read a book.
- Reach out to your family and friends for support or seek out support services for partners, family and friends of women diagnosed with breast cancer; check the Resources section of this site for more information on these and other cancer organizations
|
Español
